Hi Derek,
Last year, during annual historic event "Salt Fair" I had my small exchibition and workshop. My neighbour was a rope maker who had a few rope making machine replikas. My replika is copied with approval
.
How it works?
This is simple. At first you have to make fast four or three strands to the hooks. The strands going to one point in end. Then you have to turn hooks and making a rope. Finished rope is ended with back splice or etc.
Look at next picture, you may see ready made rope. Material used jute or sisal.
brgds
Takler
Marcin Oględzki